These Are the Fragrances Stars Actually Spritz On

When it comes to celebrity beauty secrets, few things are kept under tighter wraps than their real-deal signature scents—and no, we’re not talking about their namesake fragrance drops or the campaigns they lend their faces to. While we get endless peeks into their makeup bags and red carpet routines, scent is the one beauty detail that stays maddeningly off-camera. With access to the most exclusive juices on the planet, it’s no wonder celebrity perfumes are the one secret they might want to keep to themselves. Or maybe their favourite scents don’t align with the fashion house paying their bills.

So if you’re craving a new signature scent (or shopping for something swoon-worthy), take a cue from the A-list. From spicy and seductive to soft and sugary, these celebrity-loved perfumes—and the latest launches with similar vibes—are guaranteed to leave a lasting trail.

Charlize Theron’s Secret Scent Is Iconic

Sure, Charlize Theron has been the iconic face of Dior’s ultra-glam J’adore Absolu for over 20 years (cue golden goddess visuals), but one of her go-to spritzes? A total curveball. The Oscar winner once revealed that her daytime ride-or-die is none other than Kiehl’s Musk. Rumoured to have been whipped up back in 1921 and then stashed away for being too sexy (yes, really), this so-called “love potion” was finally released in the ’60s—and has since earned cult status. Think clean, warm, skin-hugging vibes with a nostalgic edge. No wonder it’s a favourite of Julianne Moore, Lenny Kravitz and other cool kids with amazing bone structure.

Harry Styles and Taylor Swift Are Scent Twins

In 2023, Harry Styles launched his first collection of fragrances under his beauty brand, Pleasing—but according to his makeup artists, his personal go-to has long been Tom Ford’s Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum. In an interview with British Vogue, they revealed that the “As It Was” singer has worn the scent for years. With its rich blend of spicy tobacco leaf, creamy tonka bean, vanilla and wood sap, it’s no wonder the fragrance is often described as one of the sexiest, ever. And he’s not the only fan—rumour has it Taylor Swift wears it, too. Take note, Swifties. Oh, who are we kidding? Swifties probably already know.

The Rihanna Perfume Power Move

Who’s the best-smelling celeb in the game? According to Cardi B, Lil Nas X and Jennifer Lawrence, the answer is unanimous: Rihanna. The not-so-secret weapon behind her intoxicating aura? Kilian Paris’ Love, Don’t Be Shy—a sweet, sticky gourmand that basically smells like flirting in fragrance form. Inspired by guimauves (aka the chic Parisian cousin of marshmallows), it’s loaded with vanilla, caramel and straight-up main character energy. Of course, now that Fenty Eau de Parfum is in the mix, she’s likely layering like a pro. The lesson here? If you want to smell irresistible, go gourmand or go home.

The Chanel Emma Stone Swears By

Emma Stone is so obsessed with Chanel’s Gardénia that she takes it everywhere—even misting her hotel pillows with it for better beauty sleep. It’s chic with a twist, just like her red carpet vibe. What starts as a delicate bouquet of gardenia petals, jasmine and tuberose quickly veers into cooler territory with earthy hits of vetiver, patchouli and sandalwood. Basically, it’s a floral with edge—and total main character energy.

Beyoncé Smells Like Opulence

Perhaps one of the most elusive stars of our time, Beyoncé has never publicly said what she chooses to spritz on but the Beyhive has a convincing theory. According to several reports, the superstar stopped into Harrods while in London for her Renaissance Tour. While there, she made a beeline for the Kilian Paris counter to stock up on Angels’ Share. The scent? A rich, boozy swirl of Cognac, oak, cinnamon and tonka bean, wrapped in warm sandalwood and sweet praline. It’s golden, grown and just the right amount of indulgent—basically, Beyoncé in a bottle.

Naomi’s Scent? White Hot Florals

If you’re the type who demands serious staying power from your perfume, you’re in excellent company. At the Fragrance Foundation Awards in 2018, supermodel Naomi Campbell explained that she wears Diorissimo for that exact reason, explaining, “I wear a blend of many of my old favourites. But one of my all-time favourite fragrances is Diorissimo. I love florals, florals that linger and that’s what lily of the valley does, it lingers all night.” First released in 1956, this reformulated long-wearing scent features a bouquet of white florals such as lily of the valley, jasmine and white musk. White florals are considered the most romantic notes in perfumery, which is probably why the most iconic floral fragrances feature them.